The City of Kansas City, Mo., Water Services Department is implementing an automatic meter reading (AMR) program, "the WAVE," with installation beginning in spring 2007 and ending in 2010. Using wireless radio transmitters, "the WAVE" remotely reads customer meters, and then transfers the data into the billing system. "The WAVE" will virtually eliminate estimated bills.
meter reading (AMR) program, "the WAVE," with installation beginning in spring 2007 and ending in 2010. Using wireless radio transmitters, "the WAVE" remotely reads customer meters, and then transfers the data into the billing system. "The WAVE" will virtually eliminate estimated bills.
Read a brochure on "the WAVE" (2.3meg)
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Watch video overview of "the Wave"
How does “the WAVE” work?
Using wireless radio transmitters "the WAVE" remotely reads customer meters, and then transfers the data into the billing system.
"The WAVE" will virtually eliminate the need for meter readers to manually gather water meter readings.
"The WAVE" uses a wireless fixed network system that has three components:
(1) Meters are connected to a Meter Transmitter Unit (MTU).
(2) The MTU sends a radio signal to one of 170 Data Collection Units (DCUs) located across the City.
(3) The DCUs send those meter readings to “the WAVE” control computer. The WSD billing system will use this information to calculate the amount of water used and create bills.
What are the benefits of “the WAVE”?
Improve customer service, including:
Minimize the need for WSD to access customer property to read meters
Call resolution improvement – calls regarding customer concerns will be handled more readily due to availability of more frequent meter readings
No need for customers to read their own meters due to meter access issues
Enhance customer convenience
Improve meter reading accuracy, virtually eliminating estimated bills
Control meter reading costs and improve efficiency
Reduce WSD employee injuries, especially in areas with fenced yards, dogs and landscaping
When will “the WAVE” implementation take place?
"The WAVE"” will begin with a pilot project in May 2007. The pilot project will last three to four weeks. A system-wide installation will begin upon completion of the pilot project. Installation of the system city-wide will take approximately three years to complete.
How accurate is “the WAVE” system?
The Meter Transmitter Unit (MTU) sends the current reading to the Data Collector Unit (DCU) on a daily basis. The system is extremely accurate and measures to a one cubic-foot increment (approximately seven and a half gallons).
How often will you read my meter?
The Meter Transmitter Unit (MTU) sends the current reading to the Data Collector Unit (DCU) every day.
Will all meters be replaced during “the WAVE” implementation?
Approximately 75% of all meters will be replaced during “the WAVE” implementation while the remaining 25% of the meters that are already compatible with “the WAVE” system will not be replaced.
Will “the WAVE” make customer bills higher?
“The WAVE” will not make customer bills higher. However, the accuracy of bills will be more consistent. Some customers may notice an increase because the new meter is measuring usage more accurately. Bills will be accurate and consumption will be tracked by daily usage. The WSD will be able to provide its customers more information about their consumption.
Who will be installing “the WAVE”?
“The WAVE” will be installed by WSD's contractor, VSI Meter Services, Inc. Customers will receive a notice before the installers come to their neighborhood. If the meter is located inside the customer’s residence, the customer will need to call the phone number on the postcard to schedule an appointment for installation.
How are appointments going to be scheduled with customers?
All residential and business customers will receive a postcard in the mail from our contractor, VSI, to schedule an appointment. The customer will need to call the phone number on the postcard to make an appointment at a time that is most convenient for them.
How long does it take to install the service?
Most installations will take less than 30 minutes. Service interruptions will typically be five to ten minutes for most customers.
How much will the system cost me?
For our current customers, the cost to install and implement the entire system is already included in water and sewer use charges.
Will I need to be present when you install “the WAVE” device?
Residential customers: Yes, if your meter is located inside your house. You will receive a postcard from our installation contractor to set up an appointment to install “the WAVE” device and the new meter (if needed).
If your meter is outside you will not need to schedule an appointment. You will receive a postcard regarding when our installers will be in your neighborhood. You may experience a temporary water outage during installation.
Business Customers: All business customers will receive a postcard to contact our installers to determine the best time to install "the Wave" equipment.
How will I know the installer works for WSD?
Contract employees will be wearing a company identification card and a WSD contractor badge with a photo. All documents will display "the WAVE" logo.
If you ever have any question about the identity of someone who claims to be working for WSD, please call our Customer Call Center at 513-0123.
Will 'the Wave" transmitting equipment interfere with my television, computer, cordless phone, security systems, garage doors or other electronic devices?
No. The transmitting devices operate in compliance with FCC regulations to avoid interference with other electronic devices. Our modules operate in a licensed band at less than the power needed to operate a garage door opener.
Am I required to have “the WAVE” system installed?
Yes, "the WAVE" will be installed for all WSD metered customers.
What information will be transmitted?
The MTU transmits meter readings and the meter identification number. Diagnostic information is also transmitted to verify that the meter is operating correctly.
Is my account information secure?
Yes, only meter readings and meter numbers are transmitted.
Personal customer information is not transmitted as it is not a part of the meter information or reads.
Are there any potential health concerns with the radio signals?
Studies completed on low-power radio frequency transmissions have revealed no negative health impacts.
Will my service need to be turned off during the installation?
Service interruptions will typically be five to ten minutes for most customers.
Will I see a change in my service after “the WAVE” is installed?
The only significant change to your water service will be that, once "the WAVE" system is operating, meter readers will not need to visit your property for meter readings. Service personnel may visit the meter periodically to confirm proper operation or perform routine maintenance.
Do I need to maintain the new meter?
No. WSD is responsible for all maintenance of meters for normal wear and tear. However, the owner is responsible for the service line and plumbing.
How will I know that you have my reading and not someone else’s?
Each WAVE transmitting device has a unique identification number, which is transmitted along with the meter reading. The unique number is compared to your account record to ensure a match.
What time of day will “the WAVE” installation/meter exchange take place?
Most of the meter exchanges will take place between 8 am and 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
I had a tag on my door asking me to call to schedule an appointment. Why do I need to do that?
If you had a door tag asking you to call our contractor, VSI, Inc. you did not schedule an appointment after receiving a postcard.
When multiple meter exchanges are performed, such as at apartment complexes, strip malls, shopping centers or office complexes, will the service be interrupted to all meters at once?
No. Only one service meter will be without water at a time.
Will I still be able to view the meter reading?
Yes, the reading on your meter will remain visible, so you can view the meter reading(s) if you wish.
Can I paint the Meter Transmitter Unit (MTU) that was installed on the outside of my house?
No, painting the MTU will interfere with its operation. MTUs should not be painted.
If you have further questions, please call our Call Center at 513-0123.
